Tips on How to clear cache

 

Tips on How to clear cache. Why clear Cache? Because regularly clearing your cache can bring various benefits, like faster loading times, improved accuracy, and potentially freeing up storage space.

What is Cache?

Cache is a temporary storage area where data is stored to speed up subsequent access to the same data. While caching improves performance, it can also lead to issues such as slow performance, outdated content, or even security concerns. Regularly clearing the cache on your Windows computer, web browser, and Mac can help resolve these issues and ensure optimal system performance.

In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to clear cache on a Windows computer, a web browser, and a Mac.

How to Clear Cache on Windows Computer

1. Temporary Files:

Windows computers accumulate temporary files over time, which can impact system performance. To clear these files:

• Press Win Key + R to open the Run command box.
• Type %temp% and click “OK.”
• Select all files (press Ctrl + A).
• Right-click and choose “Delete.”
• Empty the Recycle Bin to remove the files permanently.

2. Using Disk Cleanup:

• Press the Windows key and type "Disk Cleanup" in the search bar.
• Select the drive you want to clean and click OK.
• Check the types of files you want to delete and click OK.
• Confirm the deletion.

3.  Clear DNS Cache:

• Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
• Type "CMD" right-click on Command Prompt App.
• Click "Run As administrator".
• Type ipconfig /flushDNS and press Enter.

4. Clear Windows Store Cache:

• There is no direct method, but clearing temporary files may help.

Manual Deletion:

1. Open File Explorer and navigate to C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Local\Temp.
2. Select all files and folders (press Ctrl+A) and press Delete.
3. Repeat step 2 for C:\Windows\Temp.
4. Caution: Avoid deleting files from folders you're unsure about.

 

How to Clear Cache on a Browser

Microsoft Edge:

• Open Edge settings.
• Go to Privacy > Clear browsing data.
• Select the cache options you want to clear and click “Remove Files.”

Or

i. Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete to open the Clear browsing data menu.

ii. Choose the time range and select the types of data to clear.

iii. Click "Clear."

Google Chrome:

• Click the three dots in the top-right corner.
• Go to Clear browsing data.
• Choose the time range and select cache and cookies.
• Check the types of data you want to clear (e.g., Browsing history, Cookies, Cached images, and files).
• Click "Clear data."

Or

Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete to open the Clear browsing data menu.

ii. Select the time range (e.g., Last hour, Last 24 hours, All time).

iii. Check the types of data you want to clear (e.g., Browsing history, Cookies, Cached images and files).

iv. Click "Clear data.

 

Mozilla Firefox:

i. Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete to open the Clear All History menu.

ii. Choose the time range and select the types of data to clear.

iii. Click "Clear Now."

Safari (Mac):

• Open Safari.
• Click Safari in the menu bar.
• Select "Preferences" and go to the "Privacy" tab.
• Click "Manage Website Data" and then "Remove All."

 

How to Clear Cache on a Mac Computer

User Cache:

1. Open Finder.
2. Click Go > Go to Folder.
3. Type ~/Library/Caches and press Enter.
4. Select files and move them to Trash.

System Cache:

1. Open Finder.
2. Click Go > Go to Folder.
3. Type /Library/Caches and press Enter.
4. Delete files inside the folder.
5. Browse through the folders and delete individual files or entire folders associated with specific applications.

Remember to back up important files before clearing cache, and always exercise caution when removing files! Deleting essential files can cause issues.

Additional Tips:

• Clearing cache is generally safe but may require logging back into websites.
• Consider using browser extensions or apps specifically designed for cache management.
• Regularly clearing cache can be beneficial, but don't do it excessively; some cache helps improve performance.
• Be mindful when deleting system-wide cache files on Macs to avoid unintended consequences.

By following these steps and understanding the different types of cache, you can effectively declutter your devices and enjoy a smoother digital experience.